Episode 187 of The HaltingWinter Podcast

In this episode, Seth Winterhalter sits down with Will Ibershof, City Administrator of Madras, Oregon—and former mayor of Duval, Washington—for a conversation that’s as raw as it is inspiring. From throwing up during his first campaign event to building parks, securing grants, and mentoring the next generation of public leaders, Will’s story is a powerful reflection on the real work of local government.

Will opens up about what it takes to lead with courage in small communities—especially through burnout, rapid growth, and the constant push-and-pull between progress and preservation. Whether you're an elected official, a department director, or aspiring to either, this episode offers a front-row seat to the challenges and rewards of leading where you live.

• From Dare to Duty: How a challenge from friends led Will to run for office despite never having attended a council meeting

  Doorbelling and Discomfort: The unforgettable (and stomach-turning) campaign moment that taught him the power of grit and authenticity

  No Administrator, No Problem: What it’s like to serve as an elected mayor and CEO in a city without a city manager or administrator

  Burnout and Regret: A candid look at the personal cost of public service and what Will wishes he had done differently

  Mentorship That Matters: How Will forged a powerful partnership with the City Manager of Bend, Oregon and why big-small city collaboration is a rising-tide strategy

  Rural Growth, Urban Expectations: Lessons from Sultan and Madras, where housing demand, infrastructure realities, and small-town identity collide

  The Heart of Connection: Why events, community grants, and everyday kindness are essential tools for cities battling isolation and division

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/willibershof

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/sethwinterhalter
Website: www.HaltingWinter.com

At HaltingWinter, we help local government leaders build thriving teams and resilient workplace cultures through keynotes, workshops, and leadership development programs rooted in the ABCs of Impactful Leadership.

Learn more at HaltingWinter.com

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